The SAT and ACT are two different standardized tests that high school students ought to take before entering college. Most four-year colleges and universities require students take either the SAT or ACT prior to admission. Generally, universities will not have a preference as to which test a student takes. It will be stated clearly on the admission application if the university requires one or the other.

What's The Difference?

SAT  

• Tests Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing
• Accepted nationally
• Focus on Logic and Reasoning
• ¼-point penalty for incorrect answers- if you don't know leave it blank
• Multiple choice with math grid-ins
• Basic Fee: $45
• Mandatory 25 minute Writing Essay
• Test time is  3 hours 45 minutes (not including breaks)
• A perfect score is 2400 (1600 without Writing)
• Pre-SAT: PSAT (Grade 11)
• National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
• My College QuickStart

ACT

• Focus on Science, Math, Reading, English (plus optional Writing)
• Accepted nationally
• Curriculum-based
• No extra penalty for incorrect answers
• All multiple choice
• Basic Fee: $31 ($46 with optional Writing)
• Writing Essay is optional and last 30 minutes
• Test is 2 hours 55 minutes (not including optional Writing or breaks)
• Perfect Score: 36
• Pre-ACT: PLAN (Grade 10)

Which Test Should I Take?

Both! A college-bound student ought to take both the SAT and the ACT in the spring of his or her junior year. Then, that student ought to re-take the test on which he or she did better in the fall of the senior year. Since the vast majority of schools—including the three in-state universities—accept both tests, it does not matter which score you report. Also, since the tests are substantially different, students who do poorly on one test may do well on the other.

Both PLAN and PSAT are offered in the fall of each year, but the dates vary from year to year. Check the official websites for more information: PLAN and PSAT.